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Saturday, May 12, 2007

Statement from Ricky Williams explains a lot

In light of his April positive drug test, the fifth positive test we know of in his seven-year career, Ricky Williams has issued a statement that tells us a lot about where his head is at.

Here's the statement issued through the Associated Press:

"Due to the recent reports about me failing a drug test, I feel it is appropriate for me to issue this statement. Last month, following a psychological evaluation requested by the NFL, we -- the psychiatrist and I -- came to the realization that there were a few things I needed to iron out about myself in order to make my return to the NFL as successful as possible.

"I am an honest, God-fearing man who is intensely dedicated to being the best person I can be on and off the football field. There is no need to smear my name or to defame my character for the sake of news. When the time is right, God willing, I will be back on the field scoring touchdowns for whatever team is fortunate enough to believe in me.

"I appreciate all the support I have received from my fans and I assure all others that I am strong, clean, and happily preparing myself for a triumphant return to the NFL."

Alrightie then. Let's break this down.

First, we should sympathize with Ricky because he is clearly a troubled soul. The man is forever on a search for the meaning of life and, really, for the meaning of himself, and seemingly never finds what he is looking for. He is nearing 30 years old and still doesn't know himself, is still trying to, "iron things out," as he says. Of course, none of us have arrived yet for we all fall short of the mark. But most of us have some limits and controls over detrimental behavior despite our imperfections.

It is ironic to me that a man who has played a disclipined sport all his life and now teaches the discipline of yoga hasn't enough discipline to keep from doing something that hurts everyone around him, including himself. And if there is any question that smoking pot is bad for Ricky he should simply ask himself, "Did me testing positive this last time help anyone I know?"

The answer is a resounding NO.

On the other hand, "Did me testing postive hurt anyone I know?"

Absolutely. Himself. His children. His team. His agent. His fans.

Secondly, the statement contains at least two out and out lies in one sentence. He says he is "strong, clean and happily" preparing for a return to the NFL. Really?

If he's clean why did he test positive again? If he's happily preparing for his return, why is he seeking the help of a psychiatrist who, by the way, has agreed that Ricky needs to iron some things out?

Thirdly, and perhaps most troubling of all, I don't see any remorse in this statement. Is Ricky sorry he just assured himself of missing training camp because his suspension hearing is moved back to September? Nope. Is Ricky sorry for causing HIMSELF any of the smearing and defamation of which he speaks? Nope. Is Ricky sorry he disappointed a ton of people? I don't see that in this statement.

No remorse. No repentance. And that typically leads to no change.

Finally, I assume Ricky is still planning a return to the NFL -- a "triumphant," return no less. That means anyone concocting conspiracy theories that Ricky tested positive on purpose as a passive aggressive way of not having to play in the NFL is just trying to excuse harmful behavior.

It also means Ricky's still got a generous amount of ego left that he hasn't successfully suppressed amid the reportedly humble lifestyle he is living in Northern California. I'm not saying the ego thing is bad, I'm just noting that his words belie his lifestyle.

All in all, the statement paints a portrait of the same enigma I've seen in the Dolphins locker room (when he's been there) since 2001. Sometimes he's not all there. Sometimes he's too aware. All the time he's undefinable.

92 Comments:

Credit-Where-Credit-Is-Due-Dept: CREDIT TO:ARMANDO, for calling Ricky's chances for reinstatement only 50/50, when most of us thought it was a virtual lock. NO CREDIT TO: GREG COTE, for embarrasing himself (again)with his "Give Ricky A Chance" column just 1 day before this news broke. CREDIT TO: COACH CAMERON, for not supporting Ricky publicly- fans thought he was being unreasonable, when he was actually wisely prudent. NO CREDIT TO: Dolphin fans, myself included, who let themselves get burned by Ricky-again! For the third year in a row. Un-be-liev-a-ble. CREDIT TO: Ricky's dealer- wow, that must be some great weed, dude. AN EXTRA LARGE NO CREDIT TO:Ricky Williams, for his self-serving, egotistical,out-of-touch-with-reality news release.Give us all a break, Ricky, and don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out of Miami, and your NFL career.

Armando, I disagree with the anonymous response above - you are NOT an idiot and I, for one, appreciate your contributions. You are the only one who has pointed out that Ricky has no remorse in his statement. I agree, that is offensive on Ricky's part. However, one other important point is that this is the second time Ricky's medical history has been leaked by a "confidential" NFL system. I can understand if he's upset. While I'm a fan - his life is still his business.

Dear Anonymous, while I may sometimes be an idiot, I'm smart enough to know when to use "your" and "you're."

And by the way folks, Dolphins In Depth is one of the most popular blogs at The Herald. We had over 88,000 individual page views in April. Thanks for stopping by (often) ... even if it is to call me names.

Good stuff, Armando. Ricky Williams "triumuphant" return may not happen if Commissioner Goodell, says no. Ricky needs to stay in Grass Valley, and stay away from Miami. Two first round draft picks, straight down the toilet. Thanks Ricky! Mabye Saban has a job for you in Alabama.

We should all have sympathy for Ricky and any common drug user. Ricky's lesson for the publik skoool crowd should be that marijuana, a supposedly "harmless" drug, that propenents insist is NOT a gateway drug, can do plenty of damage all on its own. Here's a guy who has had every opportunity and its becoming increasingly difficult to differentiate him from the average street hood who sits in front of the mall on Friday evenings smelling of reefer. It's as tragic as it is powerful. Good breakdown, Armando.

As for the Dolphins, hopefully the management of the team realize that at some point a clean break is what is needed. The Dolphins need to totally break from Ricky just as badly as Ricky needs to break from weed. They are tarnishing (further) the impression of professional sports to allow this charade to continue. If Ricky ever cleans his act up, going back to the NFL isn't going to help him stay clean - surrounded by money, women, fame, and an increasingly-excusing public that forgives celebrities and sports heroes of nearly anything. Ricky needs a regular job someday for him to settle down. And the Dolphins need to turn their back on him (as a potential employer anyway). Hopefully, Cam Cameron will have the strength of character to dismiss Ricky permanently of any future with the Fins - character that Saban seemed to shirk on this issue. Don't send the message that the Dolphins tolerates drug use.

The only way Ricky's statement makes any sense within the context of what he says, is if the LEAK/RUMOR/WHATEVER is false. Otherwise, you're right - he is a bald-faced liar.

Would this be the first time that a leak or rumor was wrong?

I haven't seen one person suggest that we should wait and see if it is true that he tested positive for marijuana yet again. The NFL remains mum. Why in the name of all that's decent don't they say SOMETHING? ANYTHING? Even, "We don't make comments on confidential matters." If that's the case, why don't they STOP whoever is leaking this info to the press?

liar liar (ricky) & (saban)release ricky enough is enough. if he plays again in the nfl hold him to the 8 million he owes. we don,t need this bad image. its sad because ricky could have been a great back, hes no good just like that RAT saban

Its eazy for you guys to talk and speak your opinions openly to anyone whos willing to read in your nonsence...Ricky has some real issues, that anyone who comments on him would have no idea about nor experience with his type of condition...All i know is none of your comments can downgrade the potential of his preformance on the feild...He is a stud on the feild but off it anxiety and a joint seems to be the only thing stopping him from being settled...He owes us money, loyalty, and alot more more touchdowns...So as we are tought to forgive and help those who have fallin with problems...We shouldnt throw Ricky to the curb...Cause he is trash...Swap ur life with his and see how easy it is to handle...A prized athlete...Star running back...Heisman trophy winner...Take some preasure off and let him be...In time we change...Not saying ricky has change but he is taking some of the steps to get there...Have faith and good spirit the dolphins shall turn things around for the good...Good luck Ricky...

What most people seem to forget is the fact that Ricky has a mental illness. His thought process isn't the same as your's or mine. I deal with mentally disabled persons everyday. You do have to interact with them in a different manner that a "normal" person. I have believed, from his first season in New Orleans, that the NFL spotlight was too much for Ricky. Before you start judging Ricky why don't you just take one minute from your busy day a look up Social Anxiety Disorder. I pray that no one in your families has to face the mental demons that Ricky wakes up to everyday.

I have dealt with a lot of anxiety myself. My heart rate was 2 times faster than that of any normal person.

In my quest for peace and freedom from anxiety, I went to God. I learned how to approch God properly through certain guys on TBN. Not all of the guys on TBN are that good but the ones who are good, are really good.

My whole life I have been nervous and anxious. Until one day I caught Joel Osteen on TV. He not only explained God's plan, but, he also showed me how to pray for peace.

If Ricky is serious about his faith, he needs to only explore deeper into the Creator of this world and pray for peace in his life and he will truly find it.

It took me a while too but once I learned how to pray for peace properly, it was all gravy from that point. Heartbeat is normal, a guy who was once a wreck is now normal and I see everyting clear as day today.

Whether Ricky plays here another day or not, we need to pray for him because he needs us.

I guess I have to say this for a 10th time, but the fact that Ricky Williams smoking weed is a bigger story than Leonard Little murdering a women while driving drunk and STILL playing football is one of the most pathetic things I have ever heard.

What about Randy McWife-Beater?

What about Michael Pittman ramming the carc arrying his young child, girlfriend, and nanny with his truck?

It just seems strange to me, Ricky has been off the pot for 2 years now, last time he got suspended it was for a root that he took for his yoga. He has been getting tested every month since he came back in 2005, and No pot. I heard an interview with Ricky on the Dan Patrick show and he said that he was clean and just did a drug test that day, then 2 weeks later on basicly the eve of his reinstatement hearing he failed a drug test for weed and still claims he is clean and people are bashing him for the sake of news. Maybe he is just doing this to get out of paying back the money he owes or maybe there are false reports or maybe he is just a pot head. Lets hold off on the Ricky anger and dig a little deeper into this story because there has to be more to this. It just doesnt add up.

I think this is all a bunch of crap. When is this country going to open its eyes. Smoking mary jane is no worse than drinking a few beers. You all act as if its Heroine or something. Im not condoning it cause I do have kids, but give me a break. How many of you drink whisky or scotch, or wine? All Drugs! One of the worse kinds. they are addictive and they make people abusive. Ever seen a stoner? Ill take a stoner over a boozer any day.. Peace out, and good luck to you Ricky, don't let them get to you. You are human and we all have weaknesses. He who has not sinned cast the first stone.

You know Armando sometimes I don't agree with your columns. But this one is dead on....What a disappointment this guy has been to the Dolphins and us fans. Cam Cameron was right in not making any statements on the Williams return, heck he went out and got some insurance in the draft. That was enough of a sign for me to show that Cam didn't want this guy. If Linehan wants him, he can have him, for a sixth round pick...heck the Fins will even throw in the dope!

Ricky has social anxiety disorder. The media should understand what that is before bashing someone publically. Just because someone is retarded doesn't give us the right to bash them, they can't help it. It's poor taste. The man has issues and has tried several different mediums to correct his problems. Unfortunately, he hasn't found the means to resolve them and he is contractually committed to an organization where your private life is public information. Unfortunate for him and unfortunate for us that our society gravitates towards the failure of others.

Ricky Williams is ill. His illness effects his decision-making abilities just as a physical injury effects movement. For this reason, he is not a "troubled soul" nor is he a "free thinker" - unless you assume that mental health is a choice. The NFL, including a lot of journalists and fans, does not tolerate injury or extended illness. THE IRONY: what has made Ricky Williams such a gifted running back is probably due in some part to his mental illness...but his career choice, given his illness, is unfortunate. He did not let anyone down...he simply is behaving in a way that people with Bi-Polar Disorder often behave...and it is - if you study the illness - extremely predictable.

One thing I haven't seen in all the thousands of words on Ricky is how completely the NFL fails any player with a mental illness. If Ricky Williams, who had more high draft picks traded for him than any one in history, cannot get decent help for a very treatable condition like social anxiety disorder, what hope is there for a depressed Manny Wright, or other, less well-known players.

If you blow out your knee, they know just what to do, but if NFL players have any kind of mental health issues, they are ostracized and treated like freaks. Ricky gets more hate sent his way for suffering from a disease for which he is self-medicating than Mike Vick does for committing multiple animal-cruelty felonies by running a dog-fighting ring. After all, Vick can still play, he didn't let his team down. Well maybe if Ricky had gotten some prescription medication, he wouldn't have been self-medicating all these years. Maybe his teams let him down too, going back to Texas or even before.

My kids & I are huge Dolphin fans. My son who is six years old, asked why Ricky will not be playing. I had to explaine drug situation to him. He asked why would he do that? Well that is a good question. Ricky, kids all over the world look up to you as a role model. You are not a good role model for them! Just go away and role a "tight one" and take a cowards way out.

Poor, Poor Ricky.He's blown five (5) chances in the NFL. If it were you or I, we would be in the big house for quite some time. The NFL needs to step up now and remove any possibility of him playing again. This is the only acceptable outcome to teach the children about breaking the law. Let Ricky earn a living like the rest of us do!

Hey Armando, I think your doing a great job I respect your input, even though I may not always agree. We all have our opinions. And my opinion on Ricky is: To hell with Ricky Williams. Who needs a pot smoking loser anyway. He never really did anything for us anyway. I think we finally have the quarterback we've been looking for,a really good receiving corps and a great rushing tandem of Ronnie Brown and Lorenzo Booker. Both are young which is exactly what we need. And hopefully a better offenive line. So again who needs a loser. So long ricky, you've been a disappointment.

It doesn't seem that Ricky has a problem with marijuana. It seems that the NFL has a problem with marijuana. It is unfortunate that the NFL demonizes something that is probably the healthiest medication one could take for Social Anxiety Disorder, as well as many other illnesses. With modern technologies (vaporizers) one can take it without any carcinogenic effects. As someone who cares about people, I say puff on Ricky. The NFL is wrong.

Well, this time I have to say that Armando got it right. I think the dolphins will keep Ricky until his time to be eligible for re-instatement (just in case of injuries to any of our current backs) and if all of them are rolling and healthy, at that time if reinstated then ricky will be released.

Changing the subject: I was one of those fans that wanted Drew Brees to come to the dolphins and thought that bringing Culpepper was a mistake (not because of his abilities but because we had to pay a low 2nd round pick for him in a year were we needed lots from the draft, especially if our 1st round pick was going to be a bust), now I see the chance of bringing green (37 yrs old) and I say GIVE CULPEPPER A CHANCE to make this team a winner ( or as much as we can) in our last or second to last good yr of good Defense. Cam if you don't like culpepper for this yr, lets just lose with Cleo and wait until next year for a good position in the draft and don't give those good picks away for old QBs just because you knew him from before.

First of all, it's really hard to do yoga and smoke pot at the same time. I, personally don't believe that Ricky had a positive test.

I truly believe that the NFL doesn't want Ricky back into the league and here's why......... He's totally different.

From the time Williams was drafted, you could see that he wasn't comfortable with the NFL. In the National Football League, you have to sell your soul to the devil in some extent to be successful. If you don't believe me, read Pent Gents' book "North Dallas Forty". Some of us are in the same boat as far as confirming to stupid corporate bosses whose bottom line is the dollar bill.

Look at these examples. Ricky ran into the Dolphins line over 750 times in 2002-2003 just to save a coach's job who was too conservative and did some of the dumbest things a Dolphin coach ever did. Ricky is no dumbass!!!!

When Ricky wanted to change his number to "27" the Dolphins and the league said "NO". The guy couldn't wear the number he wanted to wear.

Ricky would rather talk about spirituality and life than hawking the latest beauty products like Jason Taylor or talking about redundant B.S. like other players. The NFL (along with other occupations) does not want thinkers at all. They want men to kill themselves while the owners make all the money and have a measily pension plan that does not reward players for their efforts. Yes, ESTABLISHED players make money but most players have just an average salary.

If you want to criticize Ricky, you might as well do the same with George Sauer, John Riggins and Duane Thomas, especially Thomas. Thomas was in the same backfield as Mercury Morris (another labeled malcontent) at West Texas State. Right before Super Bowl 6, when the Dolphins played the Cowboys, Thomas was asked the question, 'was the Super Bowl the ulitmate game?" He responded that if it was the ultimate game, then why do they play it every year? That comment got Thomas fined by Tom Landry and in hot water with Commissioner Pete Rozelle. Thomas went on to steamroll the Dolphins in Super Bowl 6 and he should have won the MVP award...... but he didn't. Thomas was a great running back, but the league set about to destroy him because of his stance against what was going on, and it ended up cutting his career short.

Riggins "retired" from the Jets because of a contract dispute and wearing his hair in mohawk fashion. Riggins also came to practice drunk a few times. The only reason why Riggins returned to the NFL was because of Joe Gibbs, and we all know what he did to the Dolphins in Super Bowl 17.

So I believe that the NFL got the test wrong, switched test results or just plain set Ricky up. He scares the NFL because he was a thinker. Jim Brown was a thinker that scared the NFL establishment. That's why he retired early.

Isn't it amazing that we still don't know what he was really suspended for last time? It wasn't marijuana at all but no one ever reported what the substance was. We still don't know to this day. For all we know, it could've been something in his yoga supplements.

And finally, why can't a man put faith and spirituality over football ad money? Ricky is being criticized by everyone basically because he's open with his search for the Divine One. That path is not smooth.....it's rough!

I can't understand why people are labeling him with Pacman Jones, Ron Artest, R. Jay Soward and others who have committed worst crimes and sentence him to hell.

So the ulitmate question is this...would the NFL stoop so low to rig a drug test to fail an invididual? I say they most certainly would.

Tommy are you smoking the same weed as Ricky? He can't stop smoking weed for 8.6 million dollars....He clearly has a problem! I hope he goes to New England then we ( devoted Dolphin fans ) might get some enjoyment from his career.....I have been a dolphin fan since 1970 and no player has embarrassed us and been as unreliable as Ricky....He knows we have had enough of his selfish lies.....Ricky's dealer is the only one who can count on Ricky. Like an idiot I to was looking forward to his return only to be dissapointed AGAIN! Ricky you should move to Jamaica YA MON!

I don't think he cares about the money he can make in the NFL. His plan is probably to accumulate as much publicity as possible, and then maybe writing a book about his life that is in support of the legalization of Marijuanna. I don't think he gives a damn about football.

Ricky ricky ricky ricky...u r dumb man. i used to be ur biggest fann! i backed u up after every drug test u failed. until i now. i saw and listened to ur interview on nfl network. and for sum reason i believed u were claen. but now i dont wunt u at all.god willing my butt, u dont wunt to play football.and thats ok, just go back, smoke ur weed, and have 4 more kids with 4 more women. u r a discras e to the nfl.

Is it true we are gonna try to talk Corey Dillon out of retirement? i don't see it hapenning considering he's been with PAT-hetics for a while...although it would be a great addition to the "power inside/speed outside" offensive scheme that cam wants to use hereI love L. Booker, but we can't count on a rookie to be a full-time backup cuz we don't know what he can/can't do yet...All i'm trying to say is that we need a strong running game to open things up for Trent Green (it's about time to just face the fact that he'll be our starter guys, regardless of injuries and blah-blah-blah)Either Ronnie starts playing like a number2 pick or we really need to get somebody that we can count on as a backupWhat if ronnie has a 1-game injury(that's thinking POSITIVE), is lorenzo booker gonna carry the load? are we gonna let "quick-feet" Trent Green throw the ball 40 times?Right when things started to look a little bright for us(keyword: little)...this happensHey Ricky, is Pacman Jones on yr Fave Five yet? he wants to be stupid too!!!

This statement has conflciting comments because it's not really from Ricky. It was obviously crafted and released through his agent, the person who has the most to lose from Ricky not playing. It's just damage control, pure and simple.

Dolfan, read what I wrote again. Keep in mind that the NFL is the judge, jury, and executioner. Their reps collect the tests and process them. If a player tries to take them on, they could make life very miserable for him.

I'm a pot addict myself and I'm going to use this B.S. with Ricky as a springboard for my recovery. As with any addiction pot is very difficult to overcome, many people say it's not that bad, it should be legalized, etc, but the truth is if it can ruin a multi-million dollar career and crush the hopes of hundreds of thousands of fans, it's not worth it.

Ah Ricky , the lure of the Jah jah root is too strong for you it seems. Why couldn't it be Ronnie Brown instead of you toking up a storm? I will miss the ecitement of watching you make defenders miss and scoring the td's that we all crave. Nuff respect. Light the chalice and meditate. Armando...pass the lighter.

It is completely aweful to see all these assanine comments about how bad Ricky is and how he should be just tossed to the side or gotten rid of. As far as I remember, America is SUPPOSEDLY a country where you are deemed innocent until PROVEN guilty.

This has not yet been officially released by the NFL head office, yet this leak has been spoken of as if it were verifiable fact. I am not at all disagreeing with everything in Armando's statements, UNLESS it is found that Ricky did NOT fail the drug test. I think Ricky is a valuable asset to the Phins, and I do hope this leak turns out to be false.

IF INDEED he DID smoke pot again, however, the phins would be well advised to just negate any contract with him and move on. The added distraction to the head office and the players is not needed or wanted.

In any case, Ricky needs our moral support, whether he is clean or not. He is a human being. We have all made mistakes in our lives, some of us have been lucky enough to not have to deal with the recurring consequences that an addiction can bring.

One of us may drink a few beers and call it that, while another of us may drink one beer and get addicted and become an alcoholic. Many of us have absolutely no idea what it is like to be in the hold of an addiction.

Instead, we give no sympathy to the basic human conditions that may have led him to where he is. And on top of it he has an anxiety disorder. The comments made by all, including yours, Armando, are shameful and insensitive because many of you do not, or cannot sympathize with the mental illness he suffers. It is not a condition that is treated and it goes away, THIS would be WHY he is still talking with his psychiatrist.

I do not excuse him if he is lying, because regardless of the situation, he ought to be straight forward and truthful, and not jerk the phins and fans around anymore. That, regardless of his condition, is wrong.

Refrain from judging him until ALL the facts are known, and don't jump on any bandwagon until then. It does everyone a great disservice when you do.

Many people commenting on this blog are sheep, who don't have an ounce of guts to say things like they are. Suck up to whatever so-called authority is in front of you, don't you? Probably too much fast food rot in your brains.

Here's one of Ricky's stats that can't be ignored. He's played in no more than 12 games in the last 3 seasons. And no matter how you slice it, it is due to his inability to stay clean. If a player had missed that many games due to injury, you would all be screaming that he's damaged, unreliable, and should be traded, waived, retired, etc. and no one would argue. What more do Coach and GM need to know about this player?

There is only one thing that I am having trouble understanding. This is only a "report" of Ricky testing positive for "WEED" Where is the official NFL statement on this... I have yet to see one... If he did test positive would there even be a chance for him to return at all?

Two days ago I recently posted on a Miami Dolphin forum called Finheaven, at www.finheaven.com that maybe, perhaps, Ricky Williams tested positive on purpose. I theorized he tested positive on purpose the last two years because the Miami Dolphins as an organization wouldn't let Ricky Williams retire we he wanted to. I said they held the 8 million dollars that he owed the Dolphins over he like a sledgehammer.

Now in no way did I infer that I or that anyone should ever condone the use of drugs as a means to an end. Nor does the theory I put forward excuse such behavior. That was never my intention. I just found it rather odd that it happened two years in a row. And that he happened with days of his possible reinstatement.

Some people read what is written and some people read into what is written. It is like listening I suppose. in general most people only tend to hear what they want to hear. It would be good for people to learn how to do both.

As for Ricky. I still think if he wanted to get around that 8 million dollar hammer, testing positive would be a good way to do it. It would send a message without saying a word to the Miami organization. But who knows only God and the man himself knows what’s in the heart the man.

Armando,Typically, like reading what you have to say, but to be honest, you are speaking about something you know little about. I do not know Ricky personally and cannot begin to speak about his issues away from football, and I am willing to bet you don't either. Am I frustrated that this has happened again, of course, but really, its only football. Ricky seems to have more things to worry about than the NFL, life has presented Ricky with many questions and he has chosen to figure those out and put those at a higher priority than playing. Personally, I do not agree with the way things have been handled, but I do respect Ricky's right to choose his own path.-Shaun

We all say things out of anger, and I think this Ricky bashing is out of control. Leave it to people who might I remind you, never played football, to degrade a pro. Using any drug is very bad!!! These comments are as if the man killed somone. With or without him we haven't won a Championship. Reporters are just a bunch of hot air. Put on some equipment and line up behind a sorry OL and see what happens. Not agreeing with what he is doing, but history is just repeating itself. It is not the responsibilty of just the coach or the reporter or the fans, it is our responsibilty as a community to help not bash. The world is already full of hate why add to the cause. Dolphins # 1.

Ricky is only 30 , built like a horse and with all this off time should have alot in the tank ..say 3 good years of hard running .Ricky needs a better agent one that knows where a GNC is for christ sake ..tell Ricky to buy the drug test beater from GNC that comes with the 100k if u get busted money back offer . At least this way if he fails miami can pay for the drinks B-) Really Ricky has a mental problem and was on paxcol or whatever they call it ,and says pot helps him better that the pills .We cant find one doctor in miami to tell the NFL its ok for him to get alittle high ?? Tell the NFL that the Bill of rights and other important American papers were made using POT (hemp) so chill alittle on the smoke and start bitchin about all the drinkin....Scott Firestorm

I felt the same way as everyone. In his NFL network interview, Ricky had me convinced he had changed and I was ready to love him again. Shame on me this time. I let him burn me again. Its like a bad relationship. It really doesnt add up that all of the sudden he fails his test right before his reinstatement but had passed numerous tests before? At the same time im not surprised. Damn you Ricky, damn you.

first: please delete the posts that are nothing but insults. It is fine if someone wants to explain "why armando is an idiot" but to simply call you names wastes valuable space.

As for Ricky's latest statement, that just shows he is his usual conflicted and confused self. Why would anyone take his words at face value? Maybe he feels pressure from various quarters to earn an NFL salary. He has shown in the past that he finds it easier to sabotage his way out rather than quit like a man.

Ricky should retire with Brett Farve to Miss. and give us all abreak. The more we talk about either of them the more they feed into it. Let just focus on the up coming season and making a run back to respectability. We have turned into Jets fans.

This team has had enough distractions from Jimmy Johnson until now. When was the last time you heard crap like this out of New England or Indy or Pittsburgh (notice a trend???).

Well, if we are going to talk about idiots, I guess Dave W. and Jimmy Johnson are two individuals who can describe the meaning of an idiot in a perfect way. Jimmy Johnson made not only Dan Marino(the greates quaterback ever) retire in a very ugly unfair way, but also made our beloved Dolphins an extremly boring defense team that couldn't score TD's. Also, Dave W. not only continue with Jimmy's fail point of view of making our Dolphins an extremely boring defense team but also he made the offense become a high school offense. He thought Ricky was the answer to improve our running game. At the beginning he was.... but Ricky betray us. Ricky Williams HAS NO HEART TO PLAY FOOTBALL AND HE HAS NO RESPECT FOR HIS TEAM. He may be the most giftiest talented running back ever, but..... people like him don't deserve second chances. Dave W. made a very dummy desicion to give a pot addict a chance to play. If you want to talk about IDIOTS!!!, Jimmy Johnson and Dave W. are biggest ones in my opinion.

Armando, more of a question rather than a post... Being close to an NFL locker room, how much of what the players do in their personal lives is common fact among their teammates? Do you think the other players on the team knew Ricky was a pot head? Do you think the coaches knew?

I played football and I remember we always knew who the "Burnels" were (Plantation Colonels) and the coaches knew too. but if a guy was good enough it didn't matter. I don't think it mattered that much to us, but we're going back a bit to a time when people were a little more free thinking.

What I'm driving at is, do you think Saban and Wannstedt knew what Ricky was up to but chose to ignore it? I have a hard time believing they didn't know. With that thought, they consciously made a decision to bank their team and their future on a guy they knew could be potentially busted at any time?

What does this decision making process do to the chemistry of the team? Do Zack and Jason look over and say they don't care? Do all the players smoke so it doesn't matter? Or do these guys know in the back of their minds that Ricky is going down sooner or later?

I'd love to hear some thoughts on this because it seems to me the team was fostering a mentality of don't ask, don't tell. That might work in the military (NOT) but on an NFL team I could see where this could drive a spike into the camaraderie of the team. Perhaps the offensive linemen were Burnels too and wanted a ham sandwich instead of blocking the guy in front of them!

"If Ricky is serious about his faith, he needs to only explore deeper into the Creator of this world and pray for peace in his life and he will truly find it.

It took me a while too but once I learned how to pray for peace properly, it was all gravy from that point. Heartbeat is normal, a guy who was once a wreck is now normal and I see everyting clear as day today...Seek the Kingdom of God and all things will be added to you."

Yeah, except now you worship a figment of your imagination. Good luck with that.

I don't see why some individuals seen to call ricky aliar no one really know for certain what the real situation is and I for one feel confident that Ricky will return and have a impack where ever he goes I just hope the Dolpin organization don't turn their baks on him and he goes somewhere else and become a winner which will be a great loss for Miami. Take a look around the NFL and find me a good running back there might be a handful but not very much have the talent and productivity like ricky. Even Ronnie is not at a level that ricky plays so before we start to dump Ricky remember in the NFL is about winning, and with an inproved offensive line and Ricky in the back field we dolfans can look at a possible play situation.

Ricky if you ever get a chance to read this blog don't listen to the already troubled people that write all this bashing about you. Know this they got problems themselves too but won't admit it to themselves. That's because hurt people like to hurt other people. Sad you know like: liars,immorality,thieves,gluttens,Jason the pot addict who also wrote in this blog at least he admits it but you should also offer him luck in life plus the nfl "I wish Ricky luck in life, but not the NFL" Hum I see why you also have a pot problem my friend. Ricky find Jesus Christ and he will take away not only your sins but your pot problem you will soon come to find out that pot and yoga were in your past and you will find true peace for the prince of peace comes soon I PRAY THAT THE HEAVENLY FATHER BLESS YOU IN THE NAME OF JESUS AMEN AND JASON I PRAY FOR YOU ALSO FOR YOU SHOULD NOT USE RICKY AS A SPRING BOARD FOR HE CAN'T SAVE YOU EITHER AND FOR MOST OF THE PEOPLE WHO TAKE THE TIME TO BASH I ALSO PRAY FOR YOU FOR YOU MORE DESPERATELY NEED IT. ARMANDO YOUR NOT BEHIND EITHER FOR THIS IS YOUR BLOG STAND BEFORE A MIRROR AND ASK YOURSELF IF YOU ARE HELPING RICKY WITH THIS BLOG I THINK YOUR ANSWER WILL BE NO YOU SHOULD THINK ABOUT YOUR OWN PROBLEMS I'M SURE YOU HAVE SOME TOO THAT PROBABLY NEED ADDRESSING TO HAVE THE MENTALITY OF CREATING SUCH A UNCONSTRUCTIVE BLOG.

I don't see how it is any of our or the NFL's business if Ricky or anyone else uses marijuana on their own time. It does not enhance performance on the field and it is certainly safer than alcohol off the field. The NFL is not the DEA and therefore should not try to do their job.

What the general population is so misinformed about the capablities of which Marijuana has to help people, is that from a psychological aspect, the herb can be used for finding inner peace. There were respectful civilazations way before us who used the herb for its good. The fact that there are "hoods in front of malls smelling of reefer", only shows the lack of control the PARENTS DONT HAVE in this society to mentor their children, and point them in the right way. Alcohol has been prooven to cause far more deadlier side effects from consumption then marijuana. Alcohol; liver disease, stomach ulcers, kidney disease.You cant blame the drug for abusing the user. You cant blame the gun for shooting the victim. When a person doesnt have self control, it is a result of bad parenting, and irresponsible people whom choose to instead of teaching others the truth, they confide in our government and religious leaders for inner peace, filled with false hope, lies, and scare tactics to make those who may lead normal lives, yet smoke a little grass in their home at night, to be the scum of society. Marijuana was condoned to be bad during a time when race was a huge issue, and it quickly became associated with other races who arent "white". And according to this blog, these racist statements are still being brought up. Obviously the history books we read in school seemed to have omitted the fact that George Washington was a "pothead". As well as Thomas Jefferson... And even Honest Abe. Back when the fears the american people had were real, and race wasnt at issue, Slavery was. Race became an issue when a politician made it so. Fear. "Throughout human history, as our species has faced a frightening, terrorizing fact, that we do not know who we are or where we're going in this ocean of chaos.It has been the Authorities, the political, the religious, educational authorities, who've attemped to "comfort" us, by giving us "order".. "Rules"... "Regulations"... informing and forming in our minds their view of reality.To think for yourself you must question authority and learn how to put yourself in a state of vulnerable open mindedness, chaotic, confused, vulnerability to inform yourself.Think for yourself, question authority."

Great column Armando. On 1 hand I sort of sympathize with RW, and on the other hand I don't.When u see so many real bad guys in the nfl get charged with assaults, weapons charges and dangerous drugs, get a variety of suspensions and/or fines then get back into the nfl. Then there is ricky, the mellow, peaceful, basically law abiding citizen who smokes a little pot. Other than being illegal, its not that big a deal.In fact itsalmost legal in many countries yet he is going to have to forfeit his nfl career as I think he'll get a lengthy, if not permanent suspension. But he's only got himself to blame. He knew he would get tested on a regular basis. So he either didn't care or figured he was slick. Sorry Ricky u screwed yourself. Nobody is even gonna want to take a chance on u because u don't care.

I would open my doors to a marijuana so called addict before I open my doors to an alcoholic addict and i'm also a believer in Jesus. Ricky if you were an addict you would not go so long negative after intense testing so if you wanna keep toking pass some over here :) he he he and god bless but not every day ok because that would make you an addict.

Drug testing is f'd up. Pot stays in your system for so long, but all these other guys doing coke and steroids are able to clean their systems out so fast. They need to ease up on people who test positive for pot. It's not even as strong as half the shit they inject in these guys so they can play through pain..and its nowhere near as strong as the pain killers many of them are prescribed.

If pot were legal, this would all be a non-issue wouldn't it? Alchohol is legal. John Daly has an a serious problem with it, yet no one is banning him from playing golf. Not exactly a good role model either. Is marijuana truly a problem for Ricky or does it actually help his condition in some way?

Ok Ricky Has Done Bad Things But Havent We All It Takes More To Admit Wat You Have Done Is Wrong And It Also Takes Alot To Do What Is Right Not Just For Him But For His Family, Friends, Teamates, Fans, Pot Is Bad We All Got That But Just Let Him Be And Let Him Figure Out What To Do Next As From What I Read He Is Back On The Right Track And Should Beable To Show Dolphins Fans That Ricky Williams Is Back And Ready To Start Fresh So Good Luck Ricky!!! And Keep On Doing Right You Are A Good Man

Firstly, the jury is still out there for marijuana - its still being used for medicinal purposes (actually so are some other potent ones for adverse medical condtions under the supervision of a physician). Anyways, Ricky broke NFL's substance abuse policy - so perhaps he should pay the price. BUT, if he has a genuine medical condition (which may not be known unless his medical records are reviewed), THEN why not let him take some marijuana for whatever medical problems he may have. A third party, like you Armando, can perhaps be more objective than someone like Ricky who apparently has a genuine medical condition. Leave Ricky alone Dolfans!!!

Anonymous said... Its eazy (easy) for you guys to talk and speak your opinions openly to anyone whos (who is) willing to read in your nonsence (nonsense)...Ricky has some real issues, that anyone who comments on him would have no idea about nor experience with his type of condition...All i (I) know is none of your comments can downgrade the potential of his preformance (performance) on the field (field [I before except after c) ...He is a stud on the feild (field [I before except after c), but off it anxiety and a joint seems to be the only thing stopping him from being settled...He owes us money, loyalty, and alot (a lot) more more (too many mores) touchdowns...So as we are tought (taught) to forgive and help those who have fallin (fallen) with problems...We shouldn’t (shouldn’t) throw Ricky to the curb...Cause he is trash...Swap ur (your) life with his and see how easy it is to handle...A prized athlete...Star running back...Heisman trophy winner...Take some preasure (pressure) off and let him be...In time we change...Not saying ricky (Ricky) has change but he is taking some of the steps to get there...Have faith and good spirit the dolphins shall turn things around for the good...Good luck Ricky...

Dude, reading your writing is painful that I think my eyeballs are bleeding. How can your message be taken seriously when you can't spell check? Put down the doobie and try again....Ricky is a whining, excuse-making loser. He has how many children by how many womenhow many failed tests? Ricky doesn't do "accept responsiility." Ricky is a waste of carbon, bound for the gutter.

think there is more to this, does anyone know what drug he used to fail??? why would he take something now is beyond me knowing what the outcom will be. maybe the raiders have gotten to his agent and this whole thing is a set up. we all now how ricky is from oakland area and lives near there. something is just not right here .

I really don´t understand what the big deal about weed is, and I credit that to the inceredible but stupid rules of bullshit that have grown on your incredible country. >For some reason it is fine to talk about other drugs that sale on every gas station and kill more people a Day. Ricky in any case is a man that has done two many mistakes, but lets get real and think, this in not an enhancement drug why is it a problem. But I guess those rules you people fight for are not woing to be broken soon right. The difference is my friends that if it gave the NFL money then it would be legal.

I see that there are two very different responses to the RW situation. One kind is the sympathetic and understanding type from people that A) Understand his illness. B)Question why Marijuana is so bad while murder and mayhem allow you to continue playing. C) Question the fact that the NFL has said nothing and that we are dealing with speculation, and also wonder why his last drug test failure was never explained by the NFL. D) Those that consider that NFL had it out for Williams for being "different"The second type of response is from the unforgiving, narrow minded people who just assume that he is guilty and label him a loser, and who wish the worst for Ricky. There are two types of people on here, the "thinkers" who actually ponder the whys, and the rigid, unthinking (dare I say stupid) who see everything as black and white. This is the difference between Liberal (one of the dumb comments even called Armando a stupid lib) and so called conservatives who have driven this country into the ground. I would bet that almost all of the first type of commenter (sympathetic) are liberals, and democrats who hate Bush, and the second type (unforgiving) are dumb ass cracker conservatives who love Bush. As you can imagine I am in the first group. I love ya Ricky. I do believe the NFL has it in for you, and even if you are still smoking why should anyone care? Hope you see you back on the field soon my man. Good luck with the NFL's idiocy.

Why should anybody really care about this guy. He hurt who? His what? Looks like Armando really has nothing better to do than just cry over this guy. Move on... Move on... This guy made his choice in life. Armando make the choice talk about something more interesting. Light up a joint, it may enlighten you. Armando apparently you found yourself before age 30? I know 50 year olds who have not only not found themselves, but they have not found anything...... DolFans - let this guy smoke in peace. the team has more pressing issues than to "hump on" RW.

Even New Orleans, the laughing stock of the NFL for years, made the Dolphins look like chumps on both the Ricky Williams trade and outbidding for Drew Brees. We better wake up soon, or we'll be down there with Detroit.

i am still troubled by the hypocritical position of the league regarding pot violators as juxtaposed to wife beaters alcoholics and criminals, is pot smoking worse than being a weapons violator ( Tank Johnson) an accessory to Murder, or a dog fight ring organizer (Pacman) all whom have received less a penalty than Ricky. its against the rules so he should be punished not ostracized, lets remember in the NBA Ricky would still be playing.

after all you never hear about a guy high on pot getting in a fatal wreck, beating his wife or committing a crime. They are too busy laughing!!!!

I love the people who say "Pot is not addictive. Weed is harmless". If its so harmless and non- addictive, why would Ricky not STOP!!!! I smoked pot and when it came time to stop it was very hard. I gave up alot to continue using and told myself I "chose" to do it. Weed is addictive folks, just like any other drug including the most popular one, ALCOHOL!! If you have addictive tendancies, you will probably have a problem. If not, you won't understand and this the guy is a dumb-ass "pot-head". Anyway I hope he finds peace.DolphinDave

About this blog

Armando Salguero has covered South Florida sports for 25 years, starting as a 19-year-old in 1982. He's covered the Dolphins since 1990 and hosts a Dolphins hour show every weeknight 7-8 on 790 TheTicket (790theticket.com). He has worked nationally for ESPN and also writes sports columns for The Miami Herald.